Chan, VictoriaAlbaum, Carly SKhanlou, NazillaWestra, HennyWeiss, Jonathan A2024-08-272024-08-272022-12-05https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-2327557/v1https://hdl.handle.net/10315/41577Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment for many autistic children experiencing mental health problems, and parents are particularly involved in their psychotherapy. This study presents a conceptual framework of successful parent involvement in CBT for autistic children. Seventeen therapists (94% female) and 11 mothers were interviewed about their involvement in a CBT program for autistic children ages 8-13 years. The conceptual framework depicts how parent involvement varies depending on child, parent, and environmental factors. Parents’ contributions to therapy were grouped into five main roles. Parents’ beliefs and attitudes toward therapy also influenced their involvement. This is the first study to empirically investigate how parents of autistic children contribute to the therapeutic process in CBT.5203 Clinical and Health Psychology52 PsychologyAutismPediatricBrain DisordersMind and BodyBehavioral and Social ScienceIntellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD)Mental HealthClinical Research6.6 Psychological and behaviouralMental health3 Good Health and Well BeingPreprint